Rev. Robert L. Wisniewski, O.S.A. (1931-1967)
Rev. Robert L. Wisniewski, O.S.A. entered eternal life August 22, 1967.
Robert Leonard Wisniewski was born August 1, 1931 in Detroit, Michigan to John and Mary (Blaszak) Wisniewski. He was Baptized August 23, 1931 at St. Josaphat Catholic Church, Detroit. He received the Sacrament of Confirmation May 21, 1942 at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Detroit.
Robert received his elementary education at Holy Name School and St. Augustine School, both in Detroit. His secondary education was at St. Monica Seminary, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. He was received into the Augustinian Novitiate in 1949. He professed vows in the Order of St. Augustine September 8, 1950.
He earned a B. A. in Philosophy from Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, in 1954. He then pursued theological studies at Augustinian College, Washington, D. C. He was ordained a Priest February 9, 1958. He did additional studies in Biology and Guidance at Villanova University, at Catholic University of America, Washington, D. C., at DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, and at St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri.
Father Wisniewski was assigned in 1958 as a Teacher at Mendel Catholic High School, Chicago. In 1959 he was transferred to St. Thomas High School, Rockford, Illinois. He taught at Augustinian Academy, St. Louis, from 1961 to 1967. He also served as Dean of Discipline there.
In June, 1967 Father Wisniewski entered the Chaplains' Corps of the United States Army. He had been at the Army Chaplain School, Fort Dix, New Jersey, for only three weeks when he suffered a fatal heart attack August 22, 1967.
As a Teacher and Disciplinarian, Father Wisniewski was fair and just in his dealings with the students. He left a lasting impression as a faithful Augustinian and Teacher.
The Commandant of the Army Chaplain School called him a "marvellous priest of the Augustinian Order," remarking that the Faculty, Staff and Students of the school "were edified by his pleasant attitude, as well as his deep desire to serve Christ."
Father Wisniewski is buried in the Augustinian plot at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Alsip, Illinois.
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